Reap What You Sow

“Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them.” – Proverbs 3:27.

Research indicates that most Americans say that family and personal accomplishments and possessions lead their list of what determines success, rather than faith and spiritual wholeness. Historically, like today, people would rather get than to give. The Bible has a different perspective. 

Luke 6:38 says, “Give, and it will be given to you.” The basic principle that Jesus is teaching is that if you want to change what you are getting then we must begin by giving what you want to receive whether that is love, time, energy, commitment, teaching, intercessory prayer support and whatever else we want to get. This is a Biblically based promise, “…you will always harvest what you plant.” (Galatians 6:7) And 2 Corinthians 9: 6 adds, “Remember this–a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop.”

It is not easy to put yourself out there by always giving while not expecting anything in return. However, Jesus assures us that whatever we give, will be returned to us in greater measure. Be assured that with the measure you give will be the measure that you will receive. If you give much then you will receive much from the hand of God in a way and in the time frame that He deems proper. He who sows generously, will also reap generously. That covers all areas of life so we should not hesitate to give because we have a complete underwriting guarantee.

In relationships we should consider giving the gifts of the spirit such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self control in every situation. (Galatians 5:22-23) These fruits contain the essential nutrients that can build up, and enable relationships to thrive. The fruits of the spirit never spoil or grow stale. So give of yourself, it will make a difference. Give even when you don’t feel like it because your relationships are worth it.  Give because God will give in return.

All this giving without expecting anything in return is counter cultural to be sure. But you will not regret trusting God. You will not regret obeying Him. God keeps His promises – He is absolutely trustworthy. He loves us much more and far better than we love ourselves, and He will “return to us “a good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.” 

Discussion Question:

1. What does “give” mean to you in the area of relationships?
2. God promises to return in kind what you give. How have you seen that in your life? In the life of others?
3. How can the fruits of the spirit be used to help make your relationships thrive?
4. What can we do to be better givers in our relationships this week?